I want to major in art history because I find the subject to be very interesting. I am currently in a couple art history classes, and I love them. My family does not seem to support my wanting to major in it though, saying it is difficult to get a job etc. Can anyone tell me more about possible jobs and the job outlook?
6 Comments Received
February 23rd, 2010 @1:31 pm
Museums and teaching.
Not a great outlook.
Have a Plan B.
February 26th, 2010 @6:18 am
Professors..art histrorian…those are the only two jobs i can think of…Perhaps…u want to be artist…
February 28th, 2010 @2:59 am
Possible Employers:
Advertising Agencies
Media Organizations
Antique Dealers
Museums
Archives
Performing Arts Centers
Art Management Firms Photographic Studios
Fashion Design Companies
Production Companies
Galleries
Public Relations Firms
Historic Preservation & Firms
Publishing Firms
Historical Societies
Non-Profit Organizations
Interior Design Firms
Restored Communities/Estates
Libraries
Theatre Companies
Magazines/Newspapers
Universities
A bachelor’s degree is sufficient for many entry level positions, but for advancement in an area of specialization, an advanced degree may be required.
Ok, that’s what I found from Google. My personal suggestion to you would be to choose a more broad major such as business and then minor in art history. That way, if the art thing doesn’t work out, you still have a business degree and will always be able to find a job somewhere.
March 2nd, 2010 @11:31 am
its pretty tough to get jobs in museums and galleries that actually pay you, because there are so few of them available. most gallery and museum jobs are internships, which are unpaid or very limited salary. you may want to minor in art history and major in something else that interests you, but will also give you a better chance of using it in your future.
March 2nd, 2010 @6:15 pm
This is exactly what bothers me. You can’t just do what you want and everything will work out. “If you want to be successful you have to major in business”. Fuck that. I wish I could say just follow you’re heart and do what interests you despite what everyone else believes. I, too, am interested in art and possibly music and both of those aren’t “stable”. I don’t understand life.
March 4th, 2010 @2:12 am
Let me give you some advice it took me about 5 years to learn. You must live your life for you! Love and respect your parents, but live for yourself because on your death bed (hopefully not for many, many years) you will reflect on your life and if you lived it by someone elses standards you will regret it and say, what if…? As far as a bachelors degree in art history, the jobs are limited. Art galleries will sometimes hire a person either in school or those who have a ba in art history. Many entry level jobs (in a lot of fields, including the business world) require a bachelors and usually it doesn’t matter what it is in. As far as museum jobs (director, curator, etc) a doctoral degree in art history is strongly preferred but sometimes a masters will work. Teaching at the college level can range from masters (in 2yr colleges) to doctorates (4 yr universities). Oh and for any respectful graduate programs in art history, a foreign language proficieny is required (French or German). Best of luck! The art world is hard to break into, but if it is your passion it will be worth all of the work and mediocre pay.
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